Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.

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Read

1 Kings 3:5-14 (NRSV)

At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask what I should give you.” And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant my father David, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you; and you have kept for him this great and steadfast love, and have given him a son to sit on his throne today. And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David, although I am only a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of the people whom you have chosen, a great people, so numerous they cannot be numbered or counted. Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil; for who can govern this your great people?”

It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches, or for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, I now do according to your word. Indeed I give you a wise and discerning mind; no one like you has been before you and no one like you shall arise after you. I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor all your life; no other king shall compare with you. If you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your life.”

 

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Reflect

Soloman knew he was not big enough for the job. What’s more, he was willing to admit it. He had succeeded his father, David, a king that is still remembered today as being among the greatest that ever reigned. Even people who do not claim any identification with Christianity or Judaism know about David. Pretty big shoes to fill. God knew Solomon needed supernatural help, so He asked Solomon what he wanted?

Even though he was king of Israel, Soloman was willing to admit he needed an incredible amount of help. He referred to himself as a “little child” who did not even know how to go our or come. He called himself a servant of God surrounded by God’s chosen people, too many to count. How could he do it? He couldn’t do it on his own. He didn’t know much but he knew enough to ask for help. He asked for an understanding mind to govern the people, the ability to discern between good and evil.

What do we know? Not much, and if we are wise, we will admit it and ask God for the same thing. It is only when we realize our true limitations, that we are able to ask God for what we really need.

 

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Pray

Dear Lord,

I know I do not have the ability to face even one day without your help. When I forget and try to do it on my own, remind me Lord that you are ever present and ever willing to supply all that I need to serve you.

In the Name of Jesus, Amen

Go with God!